Ways Of Getting Around For University Of Michigan Students

The University of Michigan is a bustling hub of activity, with over 100 university buildings, 30,000 undergraduate students, and 15,000 graduate students. With such a large population, there are various ways for students to get around. Walking is always an option, and the university ensures snow-covered sidewalks are cleared and salted during winters. For longer distances, students can use the extensive bus network, including university buses that shuttle between campuses and city buses that cover Ann Arbor and neighbouring areas. Students can also cycle, with bike racks available across the campus. Additionally, taxi cabs and train services like Amtrak provide affordable travel options. The university also offers after-hours transit services and safe rides for students returning home late at night.

Free university buses

The University of Michigan's bus system is extensive, offering 12 free bus routes that are open to the general public, with no ID or fare required. The buses connect the East, North and Central, Medical and Athletic campuses. The buses run every 10 to 20 minutes throughout the day.

The University of Michigan Transit system also serves the Ann Arbor campus and various Michigan Medicine facilities in Ann Arbor. The buses are easily identifiable by their blue colour. The university also offers a Bio Research Shuttle, which is an on-demand service for passengers travelling with bio-research materials.

The university's buses are perfect for getting around campus, especially between Central and North Campus. The Northwood Express, for example, provides service between the North Campus Fire Station, Northwood Housing areas, and the Central Campus Transit Center. The Commuter North and Commuter South routes connect South Campus with North Campus via Central Campus, serving destinations including the Michigan Union, Central Campus Transit Center, and University of Michigan Hospitals.

The university also offers a SafeRide service, which operates 7 days a week from 8 pm to 2 am, when classes are in session. Riders must have a valid MCard, and travel is limited.

Public transport

The University of Michigan offers a range of public transport options for students to get around both on and off campus.

On-campus transport includes the University buses, which are perfect for moving across campus, especially between Central and North Campus. These buses are free of charge and students can simply wait at a stop and pull the yellow cord to signal to the driver when they want to get off. The Blue buses are another option for free transportation around campus, with maps of their routes and hours of operation available online. The MAGIC Bus website also provides the GPS location and E.T.A. for blue buses.

For travel to and from the city of Ann Arbor, students can make use of the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA, also known as The Ride). This service is also free with a student Mcard. The Greyhound Buses provide budget transportation to nearby locations such as East Lansing.

The CSG Airbus and Michigan Flyer offer discounted tickets for travel to and from Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), with pick-up locations on campus.

Additionally, the University provides after-hours transit services for when the regular buses stop running.

Bicycles

The University of Michigan promotes bicycling as a sustainable and inexpensive mode of transportation for its students and staff. Bicycling is a great way to get around the various U-M Ann Arbor campuses quickly and easily. Students are encouraged to use their bikes to get to other destinations in the City of Ann Arbor, too.

To keep your bicycle safe on campus, invest in a good bike lock. The University recommends a case-hardened U-lock and sturdy chain, which should be used at all times. You can also register your bike with the Department of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) as an extra precaution against theft. The University also offers a Bluebike rental program for students who don't own a bicycle.

It's important to note that bicycles aren't allowed on University buses, and bicycle riders are required to obey all traffic signs, including one-way streets. Students are advised to keep their bikes well-maintained and consider a seasonal tune-up at a local bike shop.

Walking

The University of Michigan offers 75-minute walking tours of its Central Campus, led by current U-M student tour guides. These tours mostly take place outdoors, so prospective students are advised to check the local weather forecast and dress appropriately.

There are over 100 University buildings, and with 30,000 undergraduate students and 15,000 graduate students, the campus is a very populated place. However, students can easily walk between classes, and walking is a safe option at night, too. The University provides a free service called SafeRide, which operates from 8 pm to 2 am and will take students to any dorm or house within one mile of campus.

Students report feeling safe walking around the campus at night, as long as they stick to well-lit areas and are aware of their surroundings. The UM public safety app also provides an after-hours ride service for students who feel unsafe.

Taxis

University of Michigan students can get around Ann Arbor and to and from the city by taxi. Taxi cabs are a great way to get around the city and are fairly cheap. Here are some taxi companies in Ann Arbor:

• Green Cabs Ann Arbor: This company offers local taxi services in the Detroit metro area and airport. Be sure to call to confirm University of Michigan discounted pricing for orders.
• Golden Limousine International: This company offers executive car and limo services, including domestic and international airport transportation for individuals or groups.
• Metro Cars: This company offers motor coaches for local and long-distance trips, group airport transportation, and shuttle services.

Frequently asked questions